Reasons You Should Read The Ten Thousand Doors of January
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The Ten Thousand Doors of January is a historical fiction novel full of magic and fantasy. Appealing to the core of your heart, warming the center. This is Alix E. Harrowâs debut novel. Stepping into a world that feels a little different. Like opening a secret door in a sprawling mansion filled with impossible truths. Set in the early 20th century, this strange book is a love letter to stories and their power to reshape worlds. As January Scallerâs tale unfolds, her story becomes increasingly entwined with the thousand doors she discovers. Each one offers a glimpse into a new reality. Whether youâre a fan of fantasy novels, historical fiction novels, or simply a person who loves books that linger long after you return them to the shelf, this is a story worth reading. Let me take you through all the reasons this novel will steal your heart and ignite your imagination!
If you love stories that transport you to other worlds, The Ten Thousand Doors of January is an experience you wonât want to miss. Much like The Starless Sea (another favorite of mine), itâs a book within a book, intricately tying together the threads of its world and weaving the story into itself. Harrow masterfully creates a narrative so immersive that it feels as if the thousand doors are opening around you, pulling you deeper into Januaryâs journey. This is the kind of fantasy novel where time slips away, and you find yourself utterly surrounded by the textâso engrossed in the story that thereâs nothing else youâd rather do than keep reading.
“Doors are change, and change is a dangerous necessity. Doors are revolutions and upheavals, uncertainties and mysteries, axis points around which entire worlds can be turned.”
In The Ten Thousand Doors of January, January discovers that if she just thinks about the worlds she longs to walk through, a door will appear before herâa magical and impossible truth. But perhaps the same could be said for our world. Every door, whether in a sprawling mansion or a humble home, is a threshold to something new. Stop and take a moment. When you think about it, the very next door you walk through could be one to a strange book-worthy adventure, a love story, or a magical world filled with endless possibilities. Sometimes, the only thing standing between you and a new story is the courage to open the door.

Title:Â The Ten Thousand Doors of January
Author:Â Alix E. Harrow
Publisher:Â Redhook
Genre:Â Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Magical Realism
Release Date:Â September 10, 2019
Pages:Â 374
Star Rating: 5 stars
Spice Rating: 1 bell pepper
At times, the glide between each world in The Ten Thousand Doors of January can feel overwhelming, like stepping through a thousand doors all at once. But once you find the flow, itâs impossible to pull yourself away. Each story reveals impossible truths, inviting you to wander through worlds vastly different from your own. For a few hours, you can forget your troubles as the fantasy novel envelopes you like a cozy blanket, making every moment feel magical.
January Scaller is a brave, witty, sarcastic, and loyal young woman. While she begins as a timid, quiet ‘good girl,’ I loved watching her grow into a strong, badass character. Her journey feels like a love letter to finding your own strength, making her one of the most unforgettable heroines Iâve encountered in any debut novel.
âMay she wander but always return home, may all her words be written true, may every door lie open before her.â
The supporting characters in The Ten Thousand Doors of January are endearing and strong, playing vital roles in helping January discover who she truly is. Jane is the maternal figure she needs in the momentâfirm and forceful when necessary, yet always gentle and understanding. Samuel is a tough, loyal companion, keeping January grounded and helping her break free from the timid girl Mr. Locke molded her to be. And speaking of Mr. Locke, he is an evil, sadistic man driven by a craving for power. (Iâll admit, I didnât see the small twist about him coming!)
The world-building in this debut novel is adequate, providing just enough detail to bring each world alive without overwhelming the story. The pacing starts off a little rocky, with some parts feeling rough around the edges, but once the story finds its rhythm, itâs hard to put down.
This is both a plot-driven and character-driven fantasy novel, seamlessly intertwining to create a conclusion that is deeply satisfyingâyes, I said conclusions. The multiple endings offer closure while leaving you eager for more. And donât skip the epilogueâitâs the kind of bittersweet farewell that will have you wishing for a sequel. Trust me, youâll be desperate to know how the story continues.
Make sure you support local bookstores and grab a copy of The Ten Thousand Doors of January from Bookshop.org
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